PUBLIC EXPENDITURE, DRUG AVAILABILITY, TRAINING OF PERSONNEL AND HEALTH SERVICES DELIVERY IN PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES OF BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

This study meticulously examines the intricate relationship between public spending and the efficacy of health service delivery within Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in Borno State, Nigeria. Specifically, it delves into how Public Capital (CAPIEXP) and Recurrent Expenditures (RECUEXP), the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) intervention, and Demographic factors (DEMO) collectively influence the availability of essential drugs and the training of health personnel in PHCs across Borno State. Employing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis from PHCs across the state with qualitative insights, the study revealed compelling findings. Public capital expenditure, the BHCPF, NGO interventions, and demographic factors consistently demonstrate positive and statistically significant impacts on both the training of health personnel and drug availability. Conversely, recurrent expenditure exhibits a negative and significant impact on these crucial aspects of PHC service delivery. These outcomes underscore the paramount importance of strategic, targeted government spending and earmarked funds like the BHCPF, which directly bolster drug supply and personnel training. The study critically exposes the inefficient allocation of recurrent expenditures, often failing to adequately support drug supply, personnel training, and even salary payments. Based on these insights, the study strongly advocates for enhanced prioritization of capital investments by the Borno State government and fostering greater collaboration with NGOs. Such concerted efforts are undeniably vital for elevating the overall healthcare delivery systems in conflict-affected regions such as Borno State, Nigeria.